Do Cats Really Have 9 Lives?

Most cats live for about 14 years, although some have been known to live to the age of 30 and even beyond. The myth that a cat has 9 lives probably came about because of its ability to escape from many dangerous situations without harm.

Cats have good memories, keen eyesight, and exceptional senses of smell and hearing. These combine with their swiftness and agility to help them out of danger. So even though a cat may escape with its life many times, it still lives only once, just as any other animal.